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The 1994 Group of research-intensive universities welcomes the outcomes of HEFCE’s Research Excellence Framework consultation.

Issued on 26 March 2010

Paul Marshall, Executive Director of the 1994 Group said:

“We strongly agree with the continued emphasis on research excellence and the proposal that impact must be rooted in excellent research in order to be rated highly. We also welcome the fact that the exercise will build on the strengths of RAE 2008 by maintaining the strong element of peer review in judging overall research excellence.”

“While we welcome the progress that has been made, we await clarification on certain aspects included in the Review.”

“In particular, we look forward to hearing from HEFCE about the further development of proposals for the method of assessing research impact, as it will be critical to get this component right.”

“Other important areas in which we await clarification are regarding the definitions of the assessment levels used within the sub-profiles, whether multiple submissions could be made for all three elements in the assessment, how critical mass will be measured within the environment element, and whether members of staff that leave an institution before the census date should be included in the assessment.”

Notes to Editors

The 1994 Group represents 19 of the UK's leading student-focused research-intensive universities. It was established in 1994 to promote excellence in University research and teaching. www.1994group.co.uk

In 17 major subject areas 1994 Group universities are the UK leaders achieving 1st place in their field (THE RAE subject rankings 2008). 57% of the 1994 Group's research is rated 4* 'world-leading' or 3* 'internationally excellent' (RAE 2008, HEFCE). 7 of the top 10 universities for student experience are 1994 Group Universities (2009 National Student Survey) 1994 Group members include 10 of the top 18 universities in the UK in The Guardian University Guide League Table published on the 12th May 2009.

The 1994 Group represents: University of Bath, Birkbeck University of London, Durham University, University of East Anglia, University of Essex, University of Exeter, Goldsmiths University of London, Institute of Education University of London, Royal Holloway University of London, Lancaster University, University of Leicester, Loughborough University, Queen Mary University of London, University of Reading, University of St Andrews, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of Surrey, University of Sussex, University of York.